It doesn’t matter if you’re filming in high definition 4K if your sound quality is poor. Your content will come across as unprofessional and nobody wants that. That’s why investing in a decent mic system is essential for vloggers. To help you bridge the gap between audio and high-quality video from your smartphone or camera, we’ll look at some of the best microphones for vlogging, from lavaliers to shotguns.
The Top 5 Best Microphones For Vlogging
Rode’s second-generation GO single-mic system is a two-unit set: a transmitter and a receiver. The updated units run on a 2.4GHz signal that covers a 656’ line of sight. But it’s optimized for crowded, RF-dense spots. That’s because the transmitter’s built-in mic features 128-bit encryption, low self-noise (22 dB), and a max SPL of 100dB.
You could use the transmitter’s built-in mic as a clip-on lavalier (lav). That said, the transmitter’s surface is shiny and has two fairly bright LEDs, which can make it less subtle on video. If this is a major concern for you, you could use the ⅛” input to integrate an external lav or headset into your system and just use the transmitter as a bodypack.
Pros
- Onboard storage holds 40+ hours of recording as a safeguard against wireless dropouts
- Available as a dual set for two-channel recording
- Small receiver display for checking input/output levels, signal strength, battery life, etc.
Cons
- Needs a computer for full settings control (via a USB Type-C connection)
- Not-so-subtle design for a lav mic
The MV88+ kit is a bit expensive, but it includes more than just a mic. The pack contains all you need to set up your camera (or phone) and connect it to the mic—a Manfrotto tripod (doubles as a hand-held stand), USB-C cable, Lightning cable, a phone clamp, and a shoe-mount clip.
At the heart of the kit is the Motiv MV88+ mic with its 120dB max SPL, 24-bit support, and two-capsule barrel. The first capsule has a cardioid pattern for picking sounds directly in front of the mic. Meanwhile, the second capsule is best for capturing audio on both sides using a mono-bidirectional (figure-8) pickup pattern. You can also turn on both the front and sides for stereo or mid-side capture.
Pros
- 90° hinge for recording in both landscape and portrait modes
- Increased flexibility while recording interviews thanks to the multiple pickup patterns
- Compatible with the MOTIV app for polar pattern selection and remote controls
Cons
- On the pricey side
The matte-black M1 set is optimized for long-distance wireless recording on a 2.4GHz adaptive frequency hopping transmission, with a range of 650’. In terms of audio quality, the system supports a 16-bit sampling rate and runs on two modes (Natural and HearClear) to suit different environments and noise levels. However, the standout feature in this set is actually the two-in-one charging and storage case.
The case itself doesn’t take long to charge—90 minutes will do the trick. Once the case is fully charged, it can juice up the three units (receiver and two transmitters) twice. Each unit can run for 8 hours or so. All in all, you’ll get around 20 hours of non-continuous usage time out of each charging cycle.
Pros
- HearClear feature filters out ambient noise for clear recordings even in windy situations
- Available as both solo and dual sets
- Compact form factor (0.4 oz.) for more portability and convenience as a lav mic
Cons
- No independent volume controls for each transmitter
- LED indicators make the mics slightly less subtle
Movo’s VXR10 set includes one cardioid microphone and a camera mounting setup (a shock mount on a cold shoe-mount adapter). There are no transmitters or changing cases here, though. You just plug in the mic with a TRS cable to your camera and start recording. While the setup is already easy, Movo includes a six-video course to walk you through the different use cases.
Pros
- Included shock-mount minimizes vibrations and handling noises
- Battery-free, plug-and-play design cuts the hassle from the set-up and prep process
- Pocket-sized mic for more portability
Cons
- Not ideal for use on iPhones
The receiver on this dual, plug-and-play set by MayBesta connects to smartphones and tablets via a Lightning port. Then, it connects to the two lav mics via a Bluetooth 4.0 signal, covering a 50’ range. Each mic unit has a rechargeable 65MAH battery that takes around 2 hours to fully charge, but it’s possible to use and charge the mics simultaneously.
Pros
- No cables are needed for connectivity
- Sleek, lightweight (0.7 oz.) design ideal for lavs
- Dual-mic set for an affordable price point
Cons
- No USB-C compatibility for smartphones or tablets
- No battery indicators on the mics
- Comes with one charging cable only (you need one for each mic)